What is an IP address and how to find yours? A practical guide
An IP address is a numeric identifier used to identify devices on networks or the Internet. This guide explains IPv4 vs IPv6, public vs private IPs, static vs dynamic addresses, and how to find IPs on different devices.
خلاصه تخصصی مقاله
An IP address is a numeric identifier used to identify devices on networks or the Internet. This guide explains IPv4 vs IPv6, public vs private IPs, static vs dynamic addresses, and how to find IPs on different devices.
موضوعات اصلی: پشتیبانی شبکه، میشود، آدرس، کنید، اینترنت، استفاده
What is an IP address and why does it matter?
An IP address is a numeric identifier used to identify each device on networks or the Internet. Every system, phone, or server needs an IP address to communicate with other devices; it is like a postal address in the digital space.
1. IPv4 vs IPv6
IPv4 is the older protocol using 32 bits in four octets, for example 192.168.1.10. IPv6 is newer, uses 128 bits and hexadecimal groups separated by colons, for example 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334.
| Feature | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
| Address length | 32 bits | 128 bits |
| Format | Decimal | Hexadecimal |
| Number of addresses | Approximately 4.3 billion | Virtually unlimited |
| Intrinsic security | None | Has security features |
| Speed and stability | Average | Higher and more stable |
2. Public IP vs Private IP
Typically a device has two IPs: private for local network use and public for Internet access.
Private IP is valid only within the local network and is assigned by the router or DHCP. Public IP is the address visible on the Internet and is determined by the Internet Service Provider (ISP).
| IP Type | Numeric Ranges | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Private IP (LAN) | 10.0.0.0–10.255.255.255 172.16.0.0–172.31.255.255 192.168.0.0–192.168.255.255 | Used in private networks (LAN) |
| Public IP | Outside the private ranges | Visible on the Internet |
Note: Network Address Translation (NAT) is commonly used to map private addresses to a single public address for Internet access.
3. Static vs Dynamic IP
Static IP is manually or permanently assigned and remains fixed, often used for servers or critical devices.
Dynamic IP is allocated automatically by DHCP and can change with each connection.
| Feature | Static | Dynamic |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment method | Manual / permanent | Automatic / temporary |
| Best use | Servers, network devices | Home users |
| Security | Requires secure configuration | Typically adequate for ordinary users |
| Cost | Generally higher | Usually free or cheaper |
Supplementary concepts: Sticky IP and CGNAT
Sticky IP is a dynamic IP that does not change until the modem/router is reset, making it appear quasi-static for home users.
CGNAT (Carrier-Grade NAT) hides multiple users behind a shared public IP to conserve IPv4 addresses; this can affect port forwarding and some services.
How to find your IP?
Finding your IP is straightforward, with methods suitable for general users and for networking professionals.
1. Finding Public IP
To see the IP visible on the Internet, you can search in Google or use IP-checking tools.
Method 1: Google search
Search What is my IP; the top result shows your public IP.
Method 2: Use IP-checking sites
Tools like WhatIsMyIPAddress, ipinfo.io, and ipleak.net display your public IP and may show approximate location, ISP, and connection type (IPv4/IPv6).
2. Finding Private IP on Windows
To view your device’s IP in the LAN, follow these steps:
- Open Run with Windows + R.
- Type cmd and press Enter.
- Type ipconfig and press Enter.
In the output, look for IPv4 Address; that is your private IP (example: 192.168.1.104).
3. Viewing IP on a smartphone
Android
- Open Settings.
- Network & Internet → Wi‑Fi.
- Tap the connected network and open Advanced.
- IP address is shown.
iPhone
- Settings → Wi‑Fi.
- Tap the i icon next to the connected network.
- IP address appears under IPv4 Address.
4. Using a router or modem
- Enter 192.168.1.1 in the browser.
- Log in to the admin panel (default credentials are often admin).
- In Status or WAN Info you can see both public and private IPs.
5. IP lookup with professional network tools
For network professionals, on Linux or macOS you can use:
- ifconfig
- ip addr show
Tools such as Angry IP Scanner, Advanced IP Scanner, and Wireshark can help monitor traffic and IP activity.
Special note
If your IP is CGNAT, your real IP may not be visible on the Internet even with command-line checks. In such cases, a Static IP is often required for port forwarding.
برای ارزیابی پایداری، امنیت و نگهداری این زیرساخت، راهنمای پشتیبانی شبکه را نیز مطالعه کنید.